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Letters | Cop28 must uphold rights of climate activists in Asia and beyond
- Readers discuss activists’ role in the transition to renewable energy, Hong Kong’s plans to build a third medical school, and confusing date formats in public service messages
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I refer to the article, “Autocratic UAE, host of Cop28 climate talks, allows limited protests and critics in” (December 3).
Amid escalating global warming, addressing climate change requires a holistic approach recognising the inseparable link between environmental justice, human rights and climate defenders.
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In Asia, some governments impose limitations on civic engagement, making it challenging for individuals and communities to voice opinions on environmental issues without fear of reprisals. In Vietnam, despite a US$15.5 billion deal reached with Norway, Denmark and the Group of 7 to enable the country’s transition to cleaner energy sources, the government has arrested environmentalists who played a role in securing this fund.
Similarly, a coal-fired power plant in Bataan, the Philippines, poses health threats to the community but continues to operate despite protests, highlighting the challenges faced by marginalised communities.
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The silver lining is those with power can dismantle systemic injustices and empower the long-marginalised. At the ongoing UN climate change summit (Cop28) in Dubai, leaders from developed nations have pledged funds for loss and damage and committed to tripling renewable energy capacity. While this is cause for celebration, translating these pledges into tangible actions is crucial to avoid mere promises.
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